Chemical Exposure Assessment

What we do

Chemical exposure can occur anywhere on campus, not just in laboratories, through a variety of routes of entry including ingestion, absorption, and inhalation. The EHS industrial hygienist can evaluate the health hazards that exist in the lab or workplace through an exposure assessment that considers how chemicals are used, the frequency and quantities used, and the engineering controls that are in place. If necessary, the industrial hygienist will use instruments and detection devices depending on the contaminant and will then determine the associated risks.

What you can do

Following standard operating procedures, safely using engineering controls (fume hoods), and/or using personal protective equipment (respirators, gloves, safety glasses) can substantially reduce your risk. If you are concerned about your contact with potentially harmful chemicals while doing a specific task at work, contact EHS for an assessment. If chemical concentrations above OSHA permissible exposure levels are detected, EHS will work with the department to enact engineering controls or assign the use of personal protective equipment.